Vice President Kashim Shettima has announced that President Bola Tinubu has given the green light to the “Pulaaku Initiative,” a strategy aimed at addressing insurgency and banditry in the North through non-military means.
A substantial sum of N50 billion has been allocated for the initiative’s initial phase.
Shettima initially revealed the Pulaaku Initiative during a condolence visit to the Government of Kano State in July 2023, emphasizing the need for a multi-dimensional approach beyond relying solely on the military.
The Vice President, represented by Chief of Staff Ibrahim Hadeija, shared this information during the opening address at a two-day Roundtable on Insecurity in Northern Nigeria organized by the Coalition of Northern Groups.
The Pulaaku Initiative is set to kick off in seven Northern states, namely Sokoto, Kebbi, Katsina, Benue, Zamfara, Niger, and Kaduna.
The focus is on improving living conditions and livelihoods, with plans to commence construction of residences, roads, schools, and other essential facilities.
Shettima stressed the government’s commitment to tackling insecurity, evident in the significant allocation of the 2024 budget to address the issue.
He urged Nigerians to concentrate on building robust defense systems and institutions, discouraging divisive narratives.
General Abdulsalami Abubakar, former military head of state and chairman of the occasion, emphasized the importance of investing in education and the economy to address the root causes of insecurity.
He highlighted the need for synergy among security agencies and federal authorities to effectively combat terrorism, kidnapping, and banditry.
Abubakar expressed optimism that these efforts could lead to a safer and more stable northern Nigeria, benefiting the entire nation.
The leaders emphasized the transformative potential of the Pulaaku Initiative, advocating for a comprehensive and collaborative approach to tackle insecurity and promote long-term stability in the region.
